FENRAD applauds advocacy groups following Emmanuel Acha’s release

Stanley Ihedigbo

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), congratulated Comrade Emmanuel Acha, a human rights defender from Ebonyi State, on his discharge and acquittal by a competent court of law after over 200 days of unjust detention.

According to the Executive Director, FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, describes the court’s decision as a resounding victory for justice, the rule of law, and the protection of civic space in Nigeria.

Emmanuel Acha’s ordeal represents a troubling pattern in which activists and community advocates are subjected to Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP) and other coercive state actions for peacefully exercising their constitutional rights.

They commended the Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) and Spaces for Change (S4C) for their unwavering intervention, sustained advocacy, and legal support throughout this prolonged and challenging period.

Their collective efforts ensured that Emmanuel Acha was not abandoned and that his case remained in the public consciousness, reinforcing the importance of solidarity within the civic space.

FENRAD particularly applauded the courage and resilience of Emmanuel Acha, whose commitment to justice and community rights remained steadfast despite prolonged incarceration and intimidation.

His release reaffirmed that truth, persistence, and collective action can overcome repression.

The landmark outcome underscores the urgent need for Nigerian authorities to end the criminalization of civic engagement, respect the rights of human rights defenders, and ensure that state institutions are not weaponized to silence dissenting voices.

FENRAD reiterated its commitment, alongside civil society partners, to defend human rights, promote accountability, and protect Nigeria’s shrinking civic space.

They call on governments at all levels to uphold constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations.